Scientific Name: Drosera pulchella

Also known as: Red Flower Sundew, Pulchella Sundew

Origin: Native to southwestern Australia, Drosera pulchella grows in seasonally wet, sandy soils in heathlands and coastal areas with a Mediterranean climate.

Drosera pulchella is a miniature jewel among sundews, forming compact rosettes of spoon-shaped leaves dusted in glistening mucilage. Despite its small size, it produces surprisingly bold flowers—this red-flowered form is especially sought after for its vivid contrast against the green or red-tinted foliage. It belongs to the pygmy sundew group and is known for forming gemmae (tiny clonal plantlets) seasonally. Its beauty, ease of propagation, and manageable size make it a favorite for collectors and terrarium growers.

Growing Requirements

Light: Bright indirect light to full sun. Strong artificial lighting (5000–6500K) enhances colour and flowering.

Water: Use only distilled, rainwater, or reverse osmosis (RO) water.

Watering:

• Active growth: Keep soil consistently moist. Best grown sitting in a shallow tray of water.

• Summer dormancy (if triggered): Reduce watering, keep just slightly moist.

Humidity: 50–85% ideal. Thrives in high humidity but also tolerates well-lit, open-air conditions with good airflow.

Temperature: Prefers cooler to mild temperatures—ideal range is 10–25°C. Protect from excessive heat and frost.

Feeding: Catches tiny insects naturally. In enclosed setups, feed sparingly with crushed dried bloodworms or fish flakes once per month if needed.

Dormancy: May experience a brief summer rest or slow-down in extreme heat. Also produces gemmae during its winter growth cycle.

What’s Included

Plant: Small and sometimes green or red-tinged at this stage. With proper light and care, it will develop a colourful rosette and may flower or form gemmae. Mature rosette size is 1.5–3 cm across.

Grow Cup: 5 cm clear plastic cup with ventilated lid to maintain humidity. Top layer includes moss or sterile media for safe shipping.

Medium: Specialised pygmy sundew mix—low-nutrient, fine-grain, and moisture-retentive for tiny root systems.

Instructions: Step-by-step planting and care guide included.

Beginner Tips

• Use a shallow tray of water—never let the tiny roots dry out.

• Don’t cover gemmae—if produced, simply press them onto the soil surface.

• Only use mineral-free water—tap water can quickly harm small pygmy sundews.